Author: Leni

Vic’s small town beauty: Wide sandy beaches and the turquoise Mediterranean, small bays surrounded by steep cliffs, picturesque sailing boats and countless pine trees… For most people the epitome of Catalonia. It is easily forgotten that the interior of the Spanish region houses its own treasures. One of them: the charming small town Vic.

Vic’s Romanesque history

The Romanesque Pont de Queralt

Situated about 70 km to the north of Barcelona, the town with its 40.000 inhabitants finds itself surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Comarca Osona. Vic couldn’t be more picturesque, even if it tried. On the outside of town walls, surrounded by trees, one can find the ancient stone bridge Pont de Queralt.

Sur le pont…

Autumn in Vic

If something dates back to the 11th century and is that well preserved, it just has to be impressive! Up until 1274 the only way from Barcelona into the town led over the Romanesque arch bridge – after that, the king of that time decided to divert the old road; the new one led through the “Malloles“ gate. The beautiful bridge was named after a family of counts who lived in the town centre and it was even displayed on the back of a five peseta note issued in 1954.

Strolling through Vic

The baroque Església dels Dolors

Hidden church in Vic

Passing by the baroque Església dels Dolors, we continue our way towards the city centre; soon we reach Vic’s outstanding Cathedral.

Vic’s outstanding cathedral

The Romanesque bell tower is the tallest of its kind in Catalonia and presents, together with the Pont de Queralt, Vic’s most important landmarks.

The crypt and the remains of the Santa Maria church date back to the Romanesque era as well, the rest was built in a Gothic and neoclassical style.

A city full of history

On the other side of the church square lies the famous Episcopal Museum which was inaugurated in 1891. The building’s modern look misleads, though…inside it holds one of Europe’s best collections of medieval art including masterpieces of painting and sculpture from the Catalan Romanesque and Gothic periods.

Vic’s famous episcopal museum

The imposing Roman temple

A few steps further, we find the next historical treasure: the impressive Roman temple. The temple is the only remaining building of the city of Auso, as Vic was called in Roman times. Today it is regularly used to host exhibitions and cultural events.

Travel through time in the Catalan small town

Vic’s colourful streets

Through colourful streets in the typical Mediterranean style we find our way to the big Plaça Major – the town’s main square. The surrounding buildings are all from different eras. Particularly impressive: the Catalan modernism. Walking around the Plaça Major certainly feels like a travel through time.

Impressive Catalan modernism

It is also remarkable that all of the surrounding houses on the square were built with arcades in order to withstand the inclement weather; the arcades had to be high enough to accommodate a man on horseback – isn’t that clever?

Vic’s main square

We all do it: we underestimate Catalonia’s interior and above all small towns like Vic. But it’s these small, hidden places that have a lot to offer: historically interesting sights, beautiful nature right on the doorstep and a great deal of small-town-charm!

Some impressions of Vic…

Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or Valencia… everyone knows them and everyone is dying to go there. Without a doubt, all of these well-known Spanish metropolises have their own charming character but in search of my next travel destination I was looking for something different. I was looking for smaller and less known cities. Cities like Tarragona.

The Roman Tarragona

Tarragona – full of Roman history

The Catalan small town is situated about 100 km to the south of Barcelona, directly by the sea. Tarragona captivates above all with its great variety of medieval and, especially, Roman buildings.

Tarragona’s impressive Circ Roma

It is not surprising that a big part of the city has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. On my first day I decided to follow the traces of the Romans. If you’re like me and you absolutely love sightseeing you should get the cheaper combined ticket including the most important buildings.

The Roman amphitheatre with a stunning background

Early in the morning, after a delicious Xuixo and a cafe con leche, I start my archeological promenade with the first and most popular Roman monument. Located directly by the sea, the ancient amphitheatre dates back to the 2nd century AD. In Roman times countless gladiator fights took place in the ancient monument. Nowadays there are still fights happening in the summer but of course only for the tourist’s entertainment!

A city full of history

While enjoying the view from the remains of the Roman amphitheatre, I’m already looking for the route to the next monument. I don’t have to do a lot of planning though – the Roman Circus where horse and chariot races were held, and the provincial forum with its vaults and pilasters are less than 5 minutes away.

The provincial forum from the outside

Hidden underground passages lead from the Roman Circus to the Praetorium, a Roman-era tower with a viewing platform.

Underground-treasures

The Roman’s impressive work

As I make my way up the stairs, I have to stop again and again to look at the different sculptures. It is quite impressive to see how detailed and multi-faceted the Roman works are…

On top of Tarragona

Beautiful view from the roof

Finally, a narrow staircase leads up to the viewing platform on the building’s rooftop. With the excellent view of the old historic part of town on the one side and the endless Mediterranean on the other side, the platform is the perfect spot for a short breather. What better way to relax?

Walking along the Roman walls

Tarragona’s imposing Roman walls

But off I go again! The next sight is located only 15 minutes away. My path leads me through Tarragona’s beautiful and bustling alleys until I reach the Roman walls. As I am walking between palm trees and the impressively high Muralla, that has been surrounding the city since the 2nd century AD, I can almost imagine what life must have been like during the Roman times…

The remaining parts of the Local forum

After a short break in the trees’ shadow, I continue my way to the last monument of the day: the Local Forum. What was once used as the religious and social hub, now surrounded by modern day buildings almost seems a bit bizarre. Bizarre but interesting! I definitely envy the residents living around the remains of the ancient Fòrum Local. Because who wouldn’t like to wake up every morning with such a view?

Local Forum surrounded by modern houses

Tarragona’s modern side

Tarragona’s impressive cathedral

A new day, a new cafe con leche. Today I want to explore Tarragona’s modern side. The first sight on my schedule is the old cathedral which was built in a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic. But, wait! Didn’t I talk about visiting Tarragona’s modern side? Well, the beautiful Catedral de Santa Maria is at least less old than the Roman part of town.

The outside of the ancient church doesn’t fail to impress me but, in my opinion, the real gem lies on the inside. The mysterious cloister with its beautiful rose garden truly amazes me and even reminds me a bit of Hogwarts!

The beauty lies inside..

The beauty of the Cathedral’s cloister is truly captivating…

A walk through Tarragona’s modern history

The traditional Castellers made out of bronze

I continue my promenade to the grand Plaça Imperial and from there I’m walking in the shadow of the trees along Tarragona’s beautiful Rambla. Not long after, I reach the town’s landmark: the Monumento a los Castellers. The iconic statue with its Castellers, the traditional Catalan human pyramid, towers high above my head.

Continuing along the Rambla…

Roger de Llúria

As I continue along the Rambla, I pass numerous sculptures and statues until I reach the majestic Monument a Roger de Llúria. Behind the huge statue I find of the most beautiful places Tarragona has to offer: the Balcó del Mediterrani. From the charming terrace lined with palm trees I have an excellent view of the sea, the beach and the ancient Roman amphitheatre.

Amazing view from Balco Mediterrano

A perfect ending in the city by the Sea

As I’m enjoying the sun and the sea air in this beautiful and relaxing spot, I can suddenly hear Catalan folk music in the distance. Soon after, I spot the traditional Giants dancing wildly through Tarragona’s streets.

The traditionally Catalan giants

Fascinated I follow the procession which leads me back to the cathedral. For the first time I can witness the famous Castellers in action! What I had previously seen in form of a statue, unmoved and made out of bronze, is now brought to life on the church square. Definitely the perfect ending in one of Catalonia’s most beautiful cities!

Starting point: Cadaqués

Costa Brava’s “pearl”

Our promising trail starts in the region’s most popular fishing village: in Cadaqués. The small village is often called „the pearl of Costa Brava“ and those who have already payed a visit to Cadaqués understand perfectly why. The polished, snow-white houses together with the blue of the Mediterranean are dazzlingly beautiful. But because we don’t want to lose too much time, we’re not staying long in „the pearl“.

Short detour to Casa Dalí

Dalí’s art

Once we have climbed the first steep hill, we’re making a small detour to Cala de Portlligat. In an extraordinarily picturesque bay we come across Dalí’s famous residence. Even though it is hard, today we’re only stopping to admire the Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí from the outside – we still have a lot (of walking) ahead of us!

A hike through Catalonia’s nature

Olives everywhere!

Our hiking route continues and leads us from the beach up the hill past seemingly endless olive groves. Slowly I’m beginning to understand why olive oil tourism is booming in Catalonia! For a couple of minutes we’re walking in the shade of the olive trees, after that we’re continuing our way under the bright blue heaven between pine trees, cacti and other typically Mediterranean vegetation.

Walking in the shadow of the trees

Our beautiful hiking trail

Nature everywhere

While we’re following our trail, we still get to feel the quite strong autumn sun. With the Mediterranean to our right, the route is meandering along the rocky coast. Up and down, we make our way through the beautiful Catalan nature and enjoy the numerous breathtaking views.

Almost there!

Soon I catch a first glimpse of our final destination in the distance! The lighthouse shines bright like a diamond on the highest point of the Cap de Creus Natural Park and provides us with the necessary motivation for the last part of our hike. With the destination so close and the thought of a well-deserved ice cold Cerveza, the last couple of kilometres really fly by.

A well-deserved break from our hike

The dreamiest bay

Meanwhile, the sun is getting stronger and stronger while the sea is getting more tempting with every minute passing by. As it happens, we find the most beautiful bay of the whole hiking trail shortly before our last ascent. Crystal clear, turquoise water surrounded by cragged rocks and the picturesque lighthouse in the background…

Even the seagulls are enjoying the beautiful scenery!

Is this a dream? Naturally, after walking 7 kilometres in the bright sun, we seize the opportunity and cool down in this breathtaking scenery. Definitely a pleasure you don’t come across every day! We let the sun dry our bodies and after a couple of minutes relaxing on the beach, we take on the last part of our hike.

Ultimate hike destination: the light house

The iconic light house

After finally reaching the top, a breathtaking and incomparable view awaits us. Surrounded by steep cliffs and the deep blue Mediterranean, the beautiful light house towers above our heads.

Rocks and the deep blue sea

Next door, we find the charming restaurant and our long-awaited ice cold Cerveza. With the sunshine in our faces, we enjoy our well-deserved break for the next hour.

Magnificent view from the charming restaurant

I have to stop one last time and enjoy the amazing view!

Captivating view!

Refreshed and relaxed, we make our way back to Cadaqués where the evening sky is already showing off all of its beautiful colours. A day to remember…

Travelling through medieval times. The Spanish region Catalonia is known for many things. Breathtaking scenery, similar to Italy’s Tuscany, the impressive coast with its steep cliffs and the seemingly endless Mediterranean… and of course a number of charming villages captivating with their history.

Hidden corners in the medieval village

Medieval idyll

With its 2500 inhabitants, the small and historical town Pals is classified as one of the ten most beautiful Catalan villages. After a visit on an early autumnal but sunny afternoon in September, I now understand perfectly why.

Situated on a small hill, Pals’ name derives from the Latin word “palus” meaning marsh. As the name already insinuates it was once surrounded by lakes and moors. These days the village is lined by trees in all shades of green and paddy fields where the typical Spanish paella rice is produced. Arriving at the villages entrance, we abandon our car and continue by foot – the only way you should be passing these hilly, narrow streets!

Time travel in the Catalan village

Medieval time travel in Pals

After taking a few steps we reach Pals’ gates and feel as if we’re transferred to a different era. Those who are expecting even a touch of modernity are searching in vain. Thanks to an impeccable restauration the whole villages medieval basic structure is still well-preserved. You can almost hear the horse’s hooves on the bumpy cobblestone of Pals’ narrow streets and our thoughts wander… What life must have been like here in earlier times?

Torre de les Hores – the town’s landmark

Torre de les Hores in medieval Pals

We continue our path along the old stone walls covered with picturesque ivory and reach the town’s landmark. The “Torre de les Hores” – a Romanesque tower – sits majestically on top of the hill characterising the townscape. Moving further you find yourself on a little square with a viewing platform overlooking the beautiful surroundings and the dark blue sea. On clear days you’ll even be able to see the Medes Isles.

Green idyll in Pals

After enjoying the panoramic view for a while, we stroll down the old stone steps to the centre of the village. For those looking for a refreshment or a bite to eat, Pals offers a nice selection of cafés and restaurants considering the villages rather low number of inhabitants. One definitely doesn’t have to starve in Pals!

After this first travel through time to the Middle Ages one thing is for sure: we are excited to see what the other nine villages have to offer!

Figueres – small town charm. Those who are looking for a bit of variety and urban feeling – even if it’s just on a small scale – should give the charming town Figueres a go. The relaxing atmosphere is perfect for a stroll through the town and some window-shopping – I’m sure your wallet won’t stay put for long! From charming, classy boutiques to bigger fashion chains – Figueres has it all. The city also has a range of culinary treasures to offer to its visitors. For those who are looking for restaurants in a beautiful ambiance, the square in front of the town’s church is the place to be. Lean back and watch the colorful life of the city.

Dalí everywhere!

Dalís impressive sculptures!

But now moving on to a man who gave Figueres its artistic flair and made the town known around the world. Yes, you guessed right: Salvador Dalí! Because what would be an article about Figueres without mentioning Catalonia’s most prestigious artist? Exactly: simply incomplete and not capturing the town’s character. Strolling through the Catalan streets, stumbling upon Dalís works of art over and over, you can definitely tell: Figueres takes immense pride in the surrealist.

Teatre-Museu Dalí – Figueres pride and joy

The famous facade with its colossal eggs

His most impressive and noticeable work would be the Teatre-Museu Dalí in the city centre. The matte red facade with its oversized eggs representing love and hope, the enormous dome-shaped roof and the strikingly beautiful front with its countless details that alone take up a couple of minutes to observe, give a first hint of what’s hiding behind the old walls of Figueres’ former municipal theatre.

Night at the museum

Impressive facade of the Teatre-Museu Dalí

Every summer the museum offers its art-loving visitors a special treat: exclusive nighttime tours including a glass of champagne! But beware: the tours that take place between 10pm and 1 am are extremely popular. Get your tickets early enough and I guarantee you won’t be sorry! The short period of waiting doesn’t bother us because now in the evening time a light breeze is blowing in front of the museum and you don’t feel like melting in the sun anymore like one of Dalís famous clocks.

Beautiful details at the entrance

Entering the Teatre-Museu Dalí we immediately get goose bumps all over our bodies. In the semicircular inner courtyard where all of the different figures and sculptures are magically displayed with spot lights shining on them, our eyes wander directly to the giant glass dome. Especially at night the outside area of the museum spreads a special charm because now the stars are shining – almost kitschy – above our heads.

The sparkling glass dome at the museum

Figueres’ famous museum – fascinating and multi-faceted

Much more than just the famous clocks!

We continue our visit through the different rooms and notice in amazement: Dalís works of art were extremely multi-faceted. There is so much more to the artist than just the „Melting Clocks“. You could spend hours studying and interpreting every little detail of his art work. Dalí once said to his friend (and rival) Picasso: „Picasso es un genio, yo también“ meaning “Picasso is a genius but so am I“. Well, he wasn’t particularly humble…but he also didn’t have any reason to be!

Surrealistic dream

Dalís huge artwork

Those who still haven’t had enough after a couple of hours in the surrealistic museum, now have the chance to stock up on souvenirs from the gift shop. And if you developed a certain fascination with the artists life and motivation like I did, grab yourself a copy of Dalís autobiography “The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí“ and start reading!

„Yo-ho, yo-ho a pirates life for me“ Jack’s Sparrow was humming with a wild grin on his face as he puts out to sea with his beloved ship. Plundering, capturing, throwing all manners overboard and knocking back barrels of rum… Oh, the sweet life of a pirate!

Back in time – pirates in l’Estartit

Pirates in l’Estartit!

Of course, life for commoners wasn’t always easy during that period. Especially the citizens of the former fishing village l’Estartit had a hard time. In the 16th century, the Medes Islands – now uninhabited – were jam-packed with pirates, corsairs and rapscallions of all sorts. The poor villagers were victims of the pirate’s attacks more than once.

The pirates are coming!

Even though l’Estartit’s past is still engraved in the citizens memory, nowadays they take it a lot more lightly – as I could see for myself at the pirate’s celebration in l’Estartit! Having arrived at the village, I immediately felt the changed atmosphere of the usually quiet holiday destination: thrilled anticipation and hundreds of voices excitingly chattering. Boat trips to the Medes Islands, workshops, exhibitions and artisan markets are organised during the day. But now, at night time, when the sun has already sunken and the moon is up in the sky, the scene changes. It’s getting dangerous and loud… the pirates are coming!

Pirates on the beach of l’Estartit

Fire dancers and sword fighters

Playing with fire

In the course of the next two hours, l’Estartit offers its visitors a spectacular show. Torchlight processions accompanied by traditional musicians as well as dancers performing incredible acts with fire and realistic sword fights are thrilling the audience. The best is yet to come, though. I let my eyes wander over the dark blue sea and in the distance – far away from the show – my eyes catch a glimpse of something big. Something big that’s coming closer and closer. A giant pirate ship packed with pugnacious barbarians loudly roaring while swinging their swords. Not only the kids jaws are dropping – mine is too! The first pirates are already jumping overboard and screaming furiously while running towards us. The fierce fighting that follows couldn’t be more thrilling.

Fireworks on the beach

Giant firework over the sea

The spectacular show on the beach ends with a a giant firework over the sea.

Sparkling firework at the beach

Grand Finale on the church square

Fire-breather on l’Estartit’s church square

But that wasn’t all. The whole gang of pirates persists in roaming the streets of the village – and we are of course close behind! Finally, all pirates and corsairs come together on l’Estartit’s church square to celebrate the end of the spectacular show. For many visitors this was only the beginning of a wild night. The next barrel of rum is already open – that’s the way real pirates live! And we say: drink up me ‘earties, yo ho!

Sea, sun and hiking boots: With a length of 200 km, the Spanish coastal trail reaches from Portbou near the French boarder to Blanes in the South. If you decided to take on the whole trail you would definitely be en route for quite some time. Ranging from 140 km in 8 days to 43 km in 2 days – everything is possible.

First stop on the coastal trail: Pals

Broad sandy beach of Pals

We decided to take a more moderate route – at least for now. One beautiful summer afternoon – the sun is high in the sky but doesn’t burn down as strongly anymore and a gentle breeze is coming from the sea – we tie up our hiking boots and start our tour in Pals. Having arrived at the beach, we can’t help ourselves… We have to indulge our sweet tooth and get an ice cream. Don’t be too hard on us though, we did our fair share of walking afterwards!

Away from the hustle and bustle

We start our hike on the wide sandy beach of Pals where the waves are towering up today. Walking up a small staircase we reach the first part of our trail and all of the sudden we find ourselves away from the hustle and bustle of the beach. The waves splashing against the rocks, almost reaching us, captivate us. The power of the Mediterranean on the Catalan coast is definitely not to be underestimated!

Splashing waves on the Camí de Ronda

Playa Illsa Roja – tropical feeling on the Costa Brava

Tropical feeling on the Playa Illa Roja

We move along between the rugged rocks and the deep blue sea to the next small – but charming – bay. With its huge lump of rock rising from the sea and the almost tropical looking rock face covered with trees, Playa Illa Roja reminds us slightly of Thailands famous beaches. Once again the waves are towering up in front of us making us wanting to jump in!

Dreamlike atmosphere at the Playa Illa Roja

High above the Playa Illa Roja

After capturing the atmosphere of this magnificent little bay with our camera, we take on the steepest part of our hike – only to discover a spectacular view of the Costa Brava. We are looking at broad parts of the coast and the seemingly endless dark blue sea and think to ourselves: „How rewarding hiking can be!“

Enjoying the peak and the turquoise sea

After a short moment of enjoying the view, we continue our walk on a beautifully paved way to our next and at the same time last stop. The view is once again heavenly and the many seaside mansions that are surrounding us, make us (slightly enviously) dream.

Lump of rock at the Plaja Illa Roja

Last bay: Sa Riera

Almost there: Sa Riera

While the sun is slowly setting behind the mountain, the last part of the path leads us through a small group of trees appearing almost mystical in the dim evening light. One last step around the corner and we have almost reached the last stop of our tour: Sa Riera in the small coastal town Begur. Sailing ships are gently floating in the turquoise water and the last swimmers of the day are jumping in the waves. Situated directly at the beach of Sa Riera, a few charming little cafés offer us refreshments including a beautiful view of the sea.

Sailing ships in Sa Riera

Only the beginning…

Camí de Ronda – between rugged rocks and the sea

We are sure: this small part of the Spanish coastal trail was only the beginning. And that is also one of the big advantages of the Camí de Ronda – you can choose and adapt your route however you like. Young or old, fit as a fiddle or rather slow-moving – everyone has the chance to make their way through the Spanish nature at their own pace. And what could be more relaxing than to ditch your car for once and discover Catalonias beauty by hiking along the coast?

Mediterranean Sea – The beautiful Costa Brava stretches from the north of Barcelona to the French border and reaches from the foothills of the Pyrenees near Portbou to the Tordera river estuary near Blanes.
A rugged coastline with hidden beaches meets the deep blue Mediterranean accessible by charming little harbours.

Small sandy beaches separated by steep cliffs and unique rock formation, surrounded by fragrant pine trees, bizarre-looking cork-oaks and elegant acacia trees – you’ll fall in love with this picturesque region with all of your senses.

Sailing boat in Roses

“Seacret” spot

Nevertheless, the northern part of the Costa Brava is still an inside tip for many – boat lovers included! Trips along the Costa Brava are best planned during low season because then you are guaranteed enough space to anchor using the designated buoys. The best idea is to cruise from bay to bay on a cosy little sailing boat: whether it be a day trip or a two-week vacation – everything is possible on the Costa Brava. Basking in the sun and listening to the waves – that’s what a perfect day on board looks like.

Sailing trip on the Costa Brava

From one bay to another

Crossing from one bay to another and stopping wherever you like to cool down in the crystal-clear, turquoise water – the perks of traveling by boat! Sunbathing on deck, taking a dip in the deep blue sea and hearing nothing but the gentle sound of the waves…The evenings are perfect to enjoy a romantic picnic while the sun is going down. And later, at full moon, it’s time to let the champagne corks pop – oh, how beautiful life can be!

Speed and waves – discovering the Mediterranean Sea

So, set sail for the Costa Brava and discover its romance. Simply leaning back and unwinding while enjoying the view on the ocean and gently floating on the water. What could be more relaxing?

Discovering Cadaqués and the beautiful sea

CLUB NÀUTIC COSTA BRAVA

Carretera Club Nautico, S/N, 17230 Palamós, Gironawww.cncostabrava.com
Less than an hour away from Girona, the modern marina provides an excellent infrastructure to explore the Mediterranean Sea. The harbour offers the perfect basis for discovering the beautiful bays and sandy beaches of the surrounding area.

CLUB NÀUTIC L’ESCALA

Carrer Port de la Clota, s/n, 17130 L’Escala, Girona,www.nauticescala.com
The modern marina, Club Nautic l’Escala, consists of excellent facilities for boats and their crews. Thanks to its central location on the Costa Brava, you can easily explore the whole region.

SANT FELIU DE GUIXOLS MARINA

Escullera del Port, s/n, 17220 Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Girona, www.cnsfg.cat
Marina Sant Feliu de Guixols offers great service with exceptional facilities and assistance around-the-clock. There’s even a dry dock available. In the harbour, you’ll also find an outstanding restaurant, an area for members as well as personal services. The marina is easily reachable from Girona.

PUERTO DE ROSES MARINA

Avinguda de Rhode, s/n
17480 ROSES (Girona), portroses.com
Puerto de Roses also offers a ultra-modern marina with access to the charming little town and the beautiful nature at the natural park at Cap de Creus. Full nautical service and professional staff allows stress-free stopovers during your boat trip along the Spanish coast.

Barcelona off the beaten tracks…The famous Sagrada Familia, the Rambla, the Plaça Catalunya… all of these popular sights immediately come to mind when thinking of Barcelona… But Catalonia’s capital has so much more to offer! With that in mind, I payed a visit to the Catalan student city off the beaten tracks and far away from the most popular sights.

The only way is up – Barcelonas neighbourhood to be

The young and hip district Gràcia is located in the north of the city centre, far away from the crowds of tourists that Barcelona has to deal with. This part of town is nothing like the somewhat hectic historic centre. Walking through the streets of Gràcia, you immediately feel the changed atmosphere. No flawless architecture, no brightly polished streets but variety, liveliness and above all authenticity.

Especially in the evening, the district’s squares like the Plaça de la Virreina and the nearby Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia are full of life. „Good food, good mood“ is our motto for the evening. The Patatas Bravas are hot, our Cervezas are cold… The perfect ending to our first day in Barcelona!

The youth hostel that was built in a Moorish architectural style offers an extraordinary view of Barcelona because of its location on top of a hill. Although I have to admit that reaching the hosel (by foot) leaves you a little bit out of breath, the view makes it worth every step!

Impressive architecture!

In vintage-heaven

Barcelona’s vintage heaven!

Sure, the famous Rambla (and Barcelona in general) are a true shopping paradise. The most popular fashion chains can be found on every corner. But isn’t that a bit boring in the long run? Vintage and second hand stores on the other hand are full of history and personality! Who would have thought that only a couple of minutes away from the Rambla on the Carrer dels Tallers, a completely different shopping world is waiting for me?

Traveling through time – in style!

More than excited I rummage through every corner of every store for the next couple of hours. From beautiful 50ies dresses to old denim jackets and shirts with the craziest patterns and colours (long live the 70ies!)- there’s nothing you can’t find here! The Carrer dels Tallers? Heaven on earth.

Exploring Barcelona off the beaten tracks

The impressive Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau

Without a doubt, Gaudís grand masterpiece has to be seen once in a life time. But also off the Sagrada Familia there are dozens of things to discover. For example the impressive Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau that was built in the famous Catalan modernism style. Although the former hospital has long been replaced by a new building, the historic site still has its doors open for visitors. Part of the old building is nowadays used by the medicine faculty of the University of Barcelona – definitely not a bad spot to study!

Sunday in Barcelona: from the labyrinth…

A Sunday well spent brings a week of content!

Anyone who devoured the book „Perfume: The Story of a Murderer“ and loved the film adaption as much as I did, definitely has to visit „Parc del Laberint d’Horta“. After all, Barcelonas oldest park is one of the movie’s most beautiful locations.

The heart of the beautiful park? Its mysterious labyrinth…

…to the beach!

And because its Sunday, the day of rest, I treat myself to a relaxing afternoon at the beach. While I bury my toes in the sand and watch the seagulls circle above my head, I’m already planning my next trip to the Catalan capital I fell in love with…